Jack Donaghy from 30 Rock

Jack Donaghy from 30 Rock is most likely my favorite character on television. Performed to perfection by Alec Baldwin, Jack is in charge of television and microwave oven programming at General Electric and prides himself on his success, wealth, intellect, and good looks. In many ways, Jack embodies the stereotype of the all-American businessman and, not coincidentally, is a paragon of conservatism. In playing to this stereotype, Jack is often not in touch with his emotions, is stubborn, and has a strong dedication to economic justice. It’s all so hilariously hyperbolic yet despite the satire, Baldwin’s character is one we root for and sympathize with because he is caring and follows his heart, even if it is a bit misguided.

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I find it interesting (not surprising) from a casting stand point that Alec Baldwin is a 6 ft tall man with broad shoulders and an incredibly deep voice. Beyond his thoughts and views, Jack Donaghy also has very stereotypical physical characteristics of someone I would expect in upperclass business America. His size and voice is commanding which is a perfect match for this particular stereotype.

Jack Donaghy is the perfect liberal satire of the powerful conservative business leaders in this country. This character is not at all down-to-earth, he does ridiculous things that seemingly throw his money away like wearing tuxedos after 6pm. He once dated Condoleezza Rice, and his Christmas card made fun of the fact that it is “politically correct” to say “Happy Holidays.” He finds a way to grant his every whim and desire, but also occasionally recognizes that his money, power, and friends in high places are not fulfilling. 30 Rock brings down this powerful conservative stereotype by making him depend on his friendship with Liz Lemon, the head writer on the show who is absolutely nothing like him.

His self-righteousness aligns with his stereotype, and I think it defines his personality. What adds to his characters complexity is his willful ignorance towards his lifestyle connotations and personality. There is no question that he is smart, and the writers makes it clear that he is aware of his personality flaws. My favorite moments with his character is when he knows he is doing something immoral, and indulges anyway. This is funny in 30 Rock, but it’s this indulgence is exactly what has given many businessmen and Wall Street types a negative stereo type – especially during our recent economic downturn.

His self-righteousness aligns with his stereotype, and I think it defines his personality. What adds to his characters complexity is his willful ignorance towards his lifestyle connotations and personality. There is no question that he is smart, and the writers makes it clear that he is aware of his personality flaws. My favorite moments with his character are when he knows he is doing something immoral, but indulges anyway. This is funny in 30 Rock, but this indulgence is exactly what has given many businessmen and Wall Street types a negative stereotype – especially during our recent economic downturn.